Platte Institute, Speaker Arch, Legislative Leaders Unveil G.O.A.T. Initiative to Modernize Nebraska’s Regulations

LINCOLN, NE — Today, the Platte Institute hosted a press conference at the Nebraska State Capitol to announce the launch of the G.O.A.T. (Government Oversight, Accountability, and Transparency) initiative. This bold package of legislative reforms aims to modernize Nebraska’s regulatory landscape, reduce outdated rules, and enhance economic opportunities for Nebraskans. 

The G.O.A.T. initiative introduces six key proposals designed to cut through burdensome regulations that act as barriers to growth. By simplifying and streamlining regulatory processes, these reforms aim to save Nebraskans both time and money while fostering a more competitive economic environment. 

Key Proposals in the G.O.A.T. Initiative: 
REINS Act (Senator Riepe): Requires legislative review and approval of any regulation with an annual economic impact exceeding $1 million over five years, or $200,000 per year, ensuring cost-effectiveness and accountability. 

Codification of 2017 Ricketts Executive Order (Senator Conrad, LB 29): Mandates regular reviews of existing regulations and submission of reports to the Legislature. 

Federal Fund Inventory (Senator Andersen): Implements a comprehensive audit of federal funds received by Nebraska, ensuring preparedness for potential reductions in federal receipts. 
Venue Freedom (Senator Storer): Empowers businesses to resolve disputes with state agencies in local courts, reducing legal costs and burdens. 

Creation of the Office of Regulatory Management (Senator McKeon): Establishes an executive office dedicated to cost-benefit analyses of regulations and streamlining rules. 

Regulatory Advisories (Senator Quick): Prevents regulatory advisories from being binding unless federally mandated, ensuring compliance with proper procedures under the Administrative Procedures Act. 

Dr. Laura Ebke, Senior Fellow at the Platte Institute and former state senator, spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of cutting through unnecessary regulations. “Burdensome regulations often act as hidden taxes on businesses and families. By simplifying these processes, we’re not only saving time and money but also creating opportunities for growth and innovation,” said Ebke. 
In addition to Dr. Ebke, Speaker John Arch, Senator Danielle Conrad, and Senator Rita Sanders delivered remarks highlighting the importance of regulatory reform. Several other bill sponsors also attended the event, demonstrating broad legislative support for the initiative. 

Polling conducted by the Platte Institute underscores the strong, bipartisan support among Nebraskans for these reforms. An overwhelming 74% of Nebraskans support regulatory modernization, with 54% favoring legislative approval for all new regulations and an additional 20% supporting thresholds for economic impact. Additionally, 72% of respondents favor periodic reviews of regulations to ensure outdated or unnecessary rules are removed. These results highlight a shared understanding that regulatory reform is essential for Nebraska’s continued prosperity. 

“These proposals are about removing barriers to growth and holding government accountable,” said Platte Institute CEO Jim Vokal. “Regulations shouldn’t stand in the way of innovation and economic opportunity. By modernizing our approach, we can ensure Nebraska remains competitive and prosperous.” 

For more information about the press conference, the G.O.A.T. initiative, or the proposed legislation, please contact Ryan Kopsa at (402) 366-4432 or via email at [email protected]. 

The Platte Institute advances policies that remove barriers to growth and opportunity in Nebraska. Visit PlatteInstitute.org for more insights and updates.